Garnierite Nickel Ore
Garnierite is a magnesium-rich variety of nickel-bearing serpentine mineral found in laterite deposits, typically containing 1-2% nickel. Reported under HTS 2604.00.0040 based on nickel content per statistical notes. Essential raw material for nickel pig iron production.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If copper content predominant
Ores where copper exceeds nickel are statistically tracked separately under the copper content subheading.
If further processed into pig iron
Nickel pig iron from smelting is classified as ferroalloys in Chapter 72, not ores.
If chemically treated as prepared binder
Chemical modifications for industrial binders remove it from ore classification.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Submit XRF or ICP assay certificates specifying nickel grade to prevent valuation disputes
• Classify based on predominant use for metal recovery, not ceramic applications, to stay in Chapter 26
• Monitor particle size; fines may require different handling but same HTS if unprocessed ore
Related Products under HTS 2604.00.00.40
Nickel Laterite Ore
A naturally occurring ore primarily composed of nickel-bearing silicates and oxides, such as garnierite, mined from tropical weathering profiles. Classified under HTS 2604.00.0040 as nickel ores and concentrates, with nickel content reported for statistical purposes based on assay quantity. It is used in metallurgical processes to extract nickel for stainless steel production.
Saprolite Nickel Ore
Saprolite is the lower-grade, clay-rich layer of nickel laterite deposits containing hydrous magnesium-nickel silicates. It falls under HTS 2604.00.0040 for nickel ores with statistical reporting of nickel content by assay. Primarily imported for smelting into ferronickel alloys.
Limonite Nickel Ore
Limonite layer of laterite profiles consisting of iron oxides with adsorbed nickel, typically higher grade at 1.5-2.5% Ni. Falls under HTS 2604.00.0040 with nickel content reported by assay without deductions. Used in high-pressure acid leach (HPAL) processing.
Norilsk Nickel Ore Concentrate
Sulfide nickel-copper ore from Russian deposits, containing pentlandite and other nickel sulfides, processed to concentrate form but still classified as ore. HTS 2604.00.0040 captures nickel content statistically. Key for sulfide nickel production.